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The Future of Exploration [LIVE] - What Will Human Discovery Look Like In the Next Decade? episode art

The Non-Obvious Show · Episode 57

The Future of Exploration [LIVE] - What Will Human Discovery Look Like In the Next Decade?

with Layne Beachley and Dawn McIntosh

Episode 57 · October 28, 2025

In This Episode

This conversation delves into the future of exploration, focusing on the ocean and space, and the importance of self-discovery and equity in these fields. Layne Beachley, a legendary surfer, and Dawn McIntosh, a space systems engineer, discuss their experiences and insights on how exploration can be more responsible and inclusive. They emphasize the need to protect our oceans, the role of women in exploration, and the potential of virtual reality to enhance our understanding of the world.

Key Takeaways

  • Exploring the ocean demands self-reflection and awareness.
  • Women's surfing embraces grace and flow over power.
  • The ocean is vital for human life and should be protected.
  • Exploration should include self-discovery and personal growth.
  • Equity in exploration can lead to more diverse voices.
  • Indigenous cultures offer valuable lessons for sustainable living.
  • Technology can both help and hinder exploration efforts.
  • Virtual reality can provide unique exploration experiences.
  • The overview effect can inspire environmental protection.
  • Collaboration is key in both ocean and space exploration.

What We Cover

  • 00:00Exploring the Depths Within and Beyond
  • 13:31The Future of Exploration: Ocean vs. Space
  • 24:35Equity in Exploration: Paving the Way for Future Generations
  • 36:17The Spiritual Connection to the Ocean
  • 47:29Virtual Exploration: Bridging the Gap

About The Guests

Layne Beachley Seven-time world champion surfer; speaker and mentor

Layne Beachley is an Australian surfer who won seven world championships, six of them consecutively, and is now Patron of Surfing Australia after chairing its board. She speaks and mentors on resilience and mental wellbeing, and co-founded the Awake Academy.

laynebeachley.com ↗
Dawn McIntosh Space Systems Director, Fugro SpAARC

Dawn McIntosh is Space Systems Director at Fugro, where she leads the Australian Space Automation, Artificial Intelligence and Robotics Control Complex (SpAARC) in Perth. She spent more than 20 years at NASA as an engineer and project manager, including work at Ames Research Center.

linkedin.com ↗

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